The wreck was discovered and identified in May 2000 by Ian Trumpness and Kevin Heath of Stromness. It had been listed on fishing charts but believed to be an unknown fishing vessel in a depth of 285 feet. There is currently no plausible explanation for the loss of U-297 in this position.

Previously recorded fate

Listed as missing on 3 Jan, 1945 in the North Atlantic, probably near the Pentland Firth. (FDS/NHB, April 1997)

Sunk 6 Dec, 1944 in Pentland Firth, in position 58.44N, 04.29W, by depth charges
from the British frigates HMS Loch Inch and HMS Goodall. (Postwar assessment)Notes. This attack was actually against U-775 inflicting no damage.

This boat is a dive site

British newspapers have been reporting the find of U-297 some 16 miles west of Orkney Islands.

The boat was discovered in 285 feet of water in May 2000 by divers Ian Trumpness and Kevin Heath of Stromness.